politically_incorrect204

I was hearing things here and there about the movie that were generally positive. That it was supposed to be some kind of homage to 80s adventure kid movies like Goonies. To be clear, it falls far far short of films like E.T., Goonies, Stranger Things, etc. The characters are lazy, the writing is lazy, the special effects are fairly poor. I was hoping for a light riff on some of the previous mentioned films but it just turned out to be a terrible movie. I would say the actors are actually trying to do a decent job, but it's so terribly written and directed that it doesn't matter. I was hoping for another Super 8. That was a movie that paid an honest homage to the kids adventure movies of the 80s. It followed some of the familiar plot lines but was still really well acted, directed, and had great visual effects. Your pre-teen may enjoy this, but I doubt anyone else will. Such a waste of a good opportunity.

If you've seen Aziz's latest comedy special this show will not surprise you. In his latest special Aziz was both funny and clever while at other times vulnerable and thoughtful. I would say his humanity, warmth, and huge talent for being funny come out in this show in spades. And as it should since I'm guessing it's only a slightly different version than real events he's gone through on his own. There have been many comparisons to Louie and I would agree that the style of the show is similar but what makes it different is the completely different perspectives that Aziz and Louie have. Even in his stand up there's this boyish charm and innocence that Aziz has and that comes out in this show. Many of the funniest moments are Aziz being boyish and charming. He's not convince all is evil, he still sees the the best in things but is sometimes nagged by pessimism and doubt whereas Louie tends to think everything is crap and is pleasantly surprised when there is humanity left in people. All and all this show is well worth watching if you want something that is mostly funny but also has some poignant and touching moments. I agree that the last 3 or so episodes take a less funny and more drama tone but I don't think that's a bad thing. I felt like this show almost felt like an Aziz diary. He wanted to portray the things he has obviously thought about and bring to light certain social issues that have given him pause. Lastly the supporting cast is awesome. It's nice to see Eric Wareheim actually be funny as the Tim and Eric Awesome Show is pretty awful in my opinion. You got to see him be much more of a human here and be really funny while at times poignant as well. The rest of the supporting cast was great too. Although Claire Danes being in a couple episodes felt a bit odd. Regardless a show worth watching and perfectly worth binging on!

I realize a 10 out of 10 is generous and not what everyone would go this film. And I admit I'm suckered by the underdog story of a kid who feels like he doesn't belong and can't relate to a lot of other kids his age largely because I can relate to elements of that even though i wasn't quite as awkward or outsiderish as this kid. Movies like this or Kings of Summer speak to themes that mean a lot to me and my nostalgia of being a care free kid again.

Anyways, all that aside I do feel the film is quite solid. It's equal parts depressing and uplifting. It's more depressing initially but then later is uplifting. Some complain it's a bit too by the numbers or happy ending feeling at the end but for all the crap the kid put up with his step dad and step sibling I think it's nice to give him some sunshine. Beyond the story line ending a little too positively for some the acting and character development are definitely great. Allison Janney is hilarious in this film and aside from that all starring roles and supporting ones are done really well. You find yourself really believing and feeling for the characters like Owen, Duncan, his Mom, etc.

For myself I really enjoyed it even if it's not actually perfect. But for the kind of movie it is I do feel it is perfect. It's exactly the kind of ride I want to see. Frankly for people saying it's too sunny I think it's actually a bit overly depressing at first. His step father is so horrible to him (short of abuse that is) that you wish he had some sunny moments earlier in the film. I guess in that sense I wish the film would have been a bit more balanced as opposed to all depressing initially and nearly all uplifting at the end. Regardless an enjoyable ride nonetheless!